Safe gun storage saves lives: MPD launches campaign to prevent firearm theft

The Minneapolis Police Department is launching a new public awareness campaign to promote safe gun storage, with a focus on preventing firearm thefts from vehicles. The campaign is part of a broader effort by the City of Minneapolis to promote community safety, reduce gun violence and support responsible gun ownership.

In the last five years, reported gun thefts in Minneapolis have nearly doubled, with a sharp increase in the number stolen from cars. In 2025 to date, 64 percent of reported gun thefts involved firearms taken from cars.

"When you leave a gun in a vehicle-even locked or hidden-you're creating a crime of opportunity," said Chief Brian O'Hara. "That stolen gun doesn't disappear. It too often ends up in the hands of someone who uses it to hurt others. Safe gun storage isn't just responsible-it's how we save lives and keep our neighborhoods safe."

Public awareness campaign

Throughout the summer, MPD's public awareness campaign will share safety tips across social media, newsletters, and billboards. The goal: provide residents with information and tools to store firearms safely at home and on the go so that every responsible gun owner can do their part to keep guns out of the wrong hands.

While gun thefts remain a small percentage of overall crimes, they are preventable-and every theft is a chance to reduce potential harm. Areas near downtown bars, hotels, and sporting events have seen a concentration of vehicle-related gun thefts in recent years.

• 2019: 261 guns reported stolen

• 2024: 472 guns reported stolen

• In 2025 (Year to Date): 64% of stolen guns were taken from vehicles

What responsible gun ownership looks like

Proper gun storage isn't just smart, it's the right thing to do. Knowing how to safely store your gun can help prevent accidents, injuries, and theft. When storing a gun at home, always:

• Keep guns unloaded and locked in a safe, cabinet, or vault

• Store ammunition separately

• Keep keys or access codes hidden and secure

• Educate everyone in the home about gun safety. It is illegal to leave a loaded firearm where a child could access it.

You can only transport a firearm in a vehicle if:

• It is unloaded and secured in a closed case made for guns

• The case must be fully closed and fastened, with no part of the gun showing

• It is stored unloaded and locked in the trunk

• You have a valid permit to carry a firearm- Gun Permits

• Never leave them unattended in a vehicle, even temporarily

"Your choices matter," said Chief O'Hara. "One unsecured gun can lead to violence, trauma, or tragedy. Lock it up-every time, every place."

If your gun is stolen or goes missing, report it immediately by calling 911. Early reporting can help law enforcement recover the weapon before it is used in a crime.